Holden boss Mike Devereux has renewed calls for clear and consistent government policy for the car industry to ensure its survival, following Ford’s impending exit from the Australian market.

Devereux thanked employees for accepting the conditions, which include a three-year pay freeze and stricter working conditions, helping Holden achieve $15 million in annual savings.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank Holden’s workforce for their loyalty and flexibility,” Devereux said. “Changes like this are never easy and the ‘yes’ vote is a huge commitment from the hard-working men and women of our Holden team.”

Despite workers accepting the changes, Devereux admitted there were still challenges in securing Holden’s longer term future, as negotiations between the car maker and both sides of government intensify before the September 7 election.

“We are clearly producing the types of cars that Australians want to buy,” Devereux said.

“But Holden has to be globally competitive and so does the country’s industry policy. As a local manufacturer, Holden is asking for a fair go. Australia must be able to compete fairly on the world stage.

“We need clear, consistent and globally competitive government policy to help secure a long-term future for automotive manufacturing.”